"Silence!"
Seeing the chaotic scene, Tyne, who had stayed quiet all this while, suddenly spoke.
In a split second, tremendous spiritual power swept through the hall like a storm.
"This is the assessment to enter my Four Seasons Garden. If you have no wish to participate, the door's right there. Please feel free to leave."
Tyne pointed to the small door at the side.
It instantly became unnaturally quiet.
"Good! Are there none who want to withdraw? In that case, let the examinations begin!" Wade glanced at the Magi under him, nodded, and a golden hourglass appeared in the middle of the room. Grain by grain, the sand started to fall.
Seeing that it was time to begin, the magicians quickly ran to their workbenches and started to handle the materials they had.
Leylin found himself a space in the corner, and since there were many workbenches within the hall, nobody was going to fight him for this place. At the moment, he was still relaxed enough to be judging the performance of the acolytes.
Since these Magi had all chosen Four Seasons Garden, it was natural that they had achieved a certain level of attainment in Potioneering. All of the magicians began to operate the equipment on the workbench in a skilled manner, motions quick and methodological.
"From the looks of it, I'll have to reveal a bit of my skills…"
Leylin grinned and got to work...
"Hmm?"
Tyne, who had been sweeping his gaze over the applicants, suddenly made a sound of surprise.
"What happened?" Wade asked his friend in a hushed tone.
"That Magus! His brewing methods are extremely… perfect!" Tyne came up with the word after a long pause.
"Look! Even though the other magicians are skilled, they tend to make mistakes. However, there isn't the slightest bit of a lapse in his hands or in his movements. Everything is so stable as if it's a textbook example but in real life."
"Hmm… You're right! If you hadn't brought it up, I would have missed it!"
Wade watched the young man in the corner who was engrossed in handling a green plant.
The young man was currently using his right hand to heat up the beaker, the fingers on his left hand constantly emitting yellow flames. When combined together, the colour became a striking red.
"This is the Flame Combining Method unique to the dark Magi domain, and is a high level technique used in Potioneering. To think that he's so proficient in this method…"
Wade wore an expression of admiration on his face. "It looks like we've found ourselves a promising seedling. Let me see what his name is…"
Wade immediately went through the stack of application forms and quickly found the young man's name on the last piece of parchment.
"So he's called Leylin? He comes from the Abyssal Bone Forest Academy in the Poolfield Kingdom, and has offended the local Lilytell family!"
"If that's all there is, it seems like we're going to be welcoming another comrade soon!"
Tyne's usually emotionless face twisted in a smile.
For the magicians in the light Magi domain, they were uncaring of the fact that Leylin had offended those in the dark Magi region. After all, these two areas were at odds with each other in the first place.
What they were most afraid of was if Leylin had offended any of the local large-scale Magi organisations. That was the most troublesome.
At times, in order to maintain the guise of unity and solidarity, they had no choice but to reject talented Magi who were on the light Magi organisations' wanted lists.
The magicians were focusing on completing their own potions, and seemed not to have heard the two Magi, who were engrossed in conversation.
All of a sudden, a Magus dressed in a black cloak made a sound. His hand trembled, and the chemical within the test tube that was already transparent instantly became cloudy.
"Bastard! You're looking to die!"
The black-cloaked Magus roared, countless black rays gathering in his hands as he dashed towards a blonde female Magus at another side.
"Stop right there!" Wade bellowed, his body shimmering with light. A rune nearby the experiment tables shone, trapping the Magus within the area.
"My lord, she…" he protested.
"I didn't see her doing anything, I only saw you trying to attack a fellow Magus participating in the assessment!" Wade snorted.
"If this happens again, you'll lose the right to participate."
The black-robed Magus seemed extremely dissatisfied as he clenched his fist. After tarrying for several minutes, he then dispelled the radiation of energy waves in anger.
"I am going to kill you!"
He glared viciously at the blonde Magus. Afterwards, he picked up another set of ingredients and began his brewing again.
"This is… An attack on the sly?"
Leylin's hands did not stop moving yet his emotions began to surge.
Just then, the A.I. Chip's scan detected a tiny trace of an extremely covert spiritual force from the female blonde Magus that had attacked the black robed Magus.
Potioneering was a highly delicate process, and any tiny slip up could cause the whole brewing process to fail.
The black robed Magus had been interrupted at a crucial moment, and the potion he was brewing was naturally destroyed in an instant.
Although a spiritual attack was slight, a semi-converted elemental Magus would definitely be able to sense it.
However, these two examiners prevented the black-robed Magus from seeking revenge.
"Could it be that the test allows one to strike covertly, but it cannot cross a certain margin nor be too obvious?"
Leylin surmised.
With this said, the difficulty of the test had increased again. Leylin was stunned by the harshness and reality of this test from the Four Seasons Garden.
"However, on the other hand, the stricter the test is, the greater the benefits obtained later on!"
Right now, he was fuelled by a fervent desire.
*Bang!* *Bang!*
The commotion from just now seemed to have caused some sort of chain reaction, and in a short moment, another two Magi slipped up.
There was a cold glint in Leylin's eyes.
Using the A.I. Chip, he could distinctly feel that there were two minute waves of spiritual force aimed towards him.
Their target was the Potion in his hand that was close to completion!
"A two pronged attack?"
Leylin laughed. To talk about the minute control of the spiritual force, Leylin who had the A.I. Chip to help him would not be afraid of anyone!
"A.I. Chip, begin secondary task and destroy the spiritual forces together with me!"
Leylin commanded inwardly. Very soon, a layer of spiritual force that had a trace of Darkness aura met the two similar spiritual force head on.
*Ka-Cha!* *Ka-Cha!*
At the point of contact between the spiritual forces. Leylin's spiritual force had rapidly overlapped, turning into the form of a small snake. Its tiny strength continued to stack, and after several rounds, its might momentarily multiplied by several times!
*Boom!*
The two opposing spiritual forces were destroyed the moment they came in contact with Leylin's spiritual force.
Not only that, Leylin's spiritual force still followed the pathway of the two spiritual forces and began a fierce counterattack.
"Urgh!"
"Argh!"
Two sudden cries were sounded in the hall suddenly.
The potions of the black robed Magus and female blonde Magus immediately turned to ashes. Furthermore, two streams of blood flowed down from their noses.
"Interesting! Earlier, I felt that the acting of the black robed Magus was somewhat poor, but now, have they been colluding?"
Leylin smirked. His elemental essence conversion had been significantly boosted. Also, with the help of the A.I. Chip, these two were unaware, and had actually taken a small hit from him.
They most likely had to recuperate for a period of time before fully recovering from the spiritual force attack from earlier.
"My Lord! I forfeit!" The black-cloaked man glanced at Leylin in fright, and promptly lowered his head, afraid to look him in the eye any longer.
"Me too!" The blonde Magus yelled.
"Permitted!" Tyne answered.
The two Magi quickly gave Tyne a bow, and darted out of the hall.
Unexpectedly, neither of them had any complaints or glared at anyone.
"At least these two know their place!"
Leylin thought nothing of their behaviour.
Magicians respected power. In the earlier exchange, he could tell that the two Magi's elemental essence conversions were not higher than 10%, so they most likely had only just advanced.
They posed no threat to the current Leylin.
It seemed they were well aware of this fact, and quickly withdrew from the assessment, even being afraid that Leylin would pursue the matter.
"Did you see that? What an interesting performance!"
Wade grinned as he spoke to Tyne.
"Yes, his elemental essence conversion is of a rather high level. His ability to manipulate spiritual force is also amazing!"
Tyne nodded, his expression stern.
"And I was still worried that he was a spy from some organisation! I'm afraid nobody would be willing to use someone like him as a spy!"
"So this is your conclusion?" Wade blinked. This was the first time Tyne had such a good impression of somebody.
"No! This is just my hypothesis!" Tyne's usually expressionless face suddenly had a mischievous smile.
"You!"
As Tyne's colleague, Wade naturally knew that his counterpart's frosty indifference was just an act. In fact, Tyne had a mischievous mindset.
As for Wade, who looked more normal between the two, he often had to take the blame for Tyne's behaviour.
"The Jeffrey's Purifying Potion! I've completed it!"
At this moment, Leylin indicated his completion by waving his hands.
This voice was extremely abrupt in the originally silent hall. In a moment, many gazes from magicians glanced at Leylin.
Firmly held in Leylin's hand was a test-tube with a milky white substance.
Wade came in front of Leylin, and carefully took the potion from him. He then began to scribble on a form.
"Very well! You can leave now. Ten days later, come to the recruitment area at the communal centre, and await for your results!"
Wade gave Leylin an extremely warm smile.
"Many thanks!"
Leylin smiled and bowed before leaving from a side door.
He understood that the test had been successfully passed. As long as there were no problems when they reexamined his current status, the Four Seasons Garden would never deny his entry.
Outside of the communal area were the wide streets of Zone 2 in Nightless City. The bustling activity on the streets continued, as people continued to pass by.
Anyone who had registered and provided their paperwork were allowed to stay in Zone 2, so Leylin was even able to see some regular humans here.
-x-X-x-
Regular humans who lived in the domain of light Magi had better lives than those in the dark Magi domain.
Furthermore, the revered magicians even allowed them to obtain resident rights in Zone 2 as long as they continuously worked hard for it.
However, from what Leylin saw, it was only a different form of management.
Regular humans were treated at the same level as wild grasses in the dark Magi domain, and they did not receive management very often. The only thing was that they would be harvested in times of need.
As for the light Magi, they treated these humans as pieces of property; hence, they could afford to invest huge amounts of time and effort to manage them in order to reap greater benefits.
Even in the most open minded domain of the light Magi, magicians always had a position far above regular humans. Furthermore, this gap in status surpassed the gap between regular humans and nobles.
Leylin saw many situations in which regular humans, even those that seemed to be nobility, respectfully moved aside and gave a deep bow when they saw an acolyte.
Leylin paid no mind to these situations, however. The test today was rather taxing, and he was prepared to enjoy a hearty feast, then proceed to Crew's house to inquire about some matters.
The old geezer was very talkative, and Leylin wasn't planning on asking him anything confidential, so he was naturally willing to entertain Leylin.
* Crash! *
"Ah!"
Suddenly, a little girl in a white dress, who was chasing something like a rubber ball, bumped into Leylin's leg.
Rather than Leylin, who stayed in the same spot, the little girl fell backwards onto the ground.
She opened her eyes wide, and when she saw Leylin in his leather armour, she promptly began to cry in fear.
The congested street instantly became quiet, and regular people quickly backed away. Even a few acolytes yelped, "official Magus," and phrases along those lines, and bowed while drawing back.
"My lord! Please forgive my daughter for unwittingly offending you!"
At the moment, a slightly plump noble prostrated himself in front of Leylin. He had cold sweat dripping down his quivering body.
In the Nightless City, the authority of the official Magi were extremely high. Even if they were to casually kill several humans, they would, at most, only be fined a set amount of magic crystals.
If Leylin's mood wasn't good, he could just kill these two people here, and they wouldn't be able to do anything but accept their fate.
The plump noble kowtowed as he pulled the little girl to kneel as well. "Quickly, seek forgiveness from the Lord!"
This atmosphere that seemed like a befalling calamity had also influenced the little girl. She held back her sobs and blankly stared on.
"It's alright!"
Leylin picked up the rubber ball on the roadside and handed it to the little girl. He even ruffled her hair with his right hand.
"It's no big deal! No need to worry!"
"Thank you, Lord!" "Thank you, Lord!"
With a feeling of a renewed life, the fatty's words were choked back. Even the little girl that he had brought along seemed to heave a sigh of relief.
"Do not be this impudent in the future anymore!"
Leylin nonchalantly lectured the fatty before leaving the scene in large strides, as the revered gazes of the passerby stared on.
"Do not be this disobedient in future anymore. Fortunately, this time, it was a kind magician. If it wasn't…"
The fatty wiped off the sweat on his forehead as he scolded the girl.
As for the white-robed girl, she looked at the direction Leylin headed towards with admiration.
...
Nine days later, in a spacious room.
An old Magus with a head of white hair and gilded spectacles was looking at the pieces of information he was holding in his hand.
Within a transparent crystal ball, lines of text appeared.
"Leylin Farlier! From the Chernobyl Islands. Entered Abyssal Bone Forest Academy in the year 20987 of the Saint Yuan Calendar!" Next to these words, there was also a picture of a boy who was around thirteen or fourteen years old, and very similar in appearance to the current Leylin.
On another crystal ball nearby, there was a detailed record of Leylin's experiences in the Abyssal Bone Forest Academy. As long as the information was made available to the public, it was all written there. There was even an article regarding the matter of how he had offended the Lilytell family.
"Hm! For the sake of a couple remnants? Seems reasonable!"
The old Magus nodded.
"Look, should we ask him to hand over the research materials he obtained from the ruins?" A Magus with a third eye on his forehead said.
"No, all official Magi have their own secrets. We need to learn to be lenient and tolerant, or else all of the magicians in the organisation would end up only acting for their personal benefits, leading to the segregation of groups!
There were several Magi who had journeyed throughout the south coast and managed to break through. If Four Seasons Garden demanded Leylin hand over his research, it would definitely draw the ire of other Magi, which would definitely provide no benefits for them.
"However, based on Wade's information, that Magus called Leylin had a slightly different aura than regular Magi. He might have broken through with some ancient methods..."
The Three-Eyed Magus was somewhat unresigned.
"Those alternative paths that a Magus might take may not have the advantages that you think they might…"
The old Magus looked at Three-Eyes beside him, and could not help but remind him.
"Time is the best judge. In the long history of competition, several tens of thousands of years have already passed. Branded Swordsmen, Elemental Bards, and Divine Warriors have all become extinct with the passage of time. Only we, who are the most traditional of magicians, have been preserved. Does this not explain everything?"
The old Magus' eyes shone with wisdom.
"For some subclasses, although they might have favorable conditions when they advance, most of their routes on the path of advancement become blocked. It's not even close to us, who can see continuous progress with constant cultivation in meditation techniques.
"Moreover, one must believe in time and the power of influencing through good will! Learn to embrace them!"
The old Magus smiled with confidence.
"We should not treat him as an enemy, but as a friend. After some time, he will naturally sense our good will. Moreover, the bountiful reserves of our Four Seasons Garden will definitely contain something that he needs!"
The old Magus merely adopted a soft approach instead of a hard one. Even with such an approach, it did not mean that he had given up on obtaining the information.
"Other than the Lilytell Family, is the Magus called Leylin really not a criminal wanted by anyone else?"
The old Magus asked again.
"I've checked multiple times, Mentor!" Wade bowed, "After Leylin went to the south coast, he usually stayed within the compounds of the Abyssal Bone Forest Academy to study. He had little contact with other powers, and nine days ago, he…"
Next, Wade gave a brief summary of how Leylin let go of the father and daughter a few days ago.
"Look, he's still on the side of the light!"
The old Magus smiled as he spoke to the three-eyed Magus.
"Hmph! It's just for show!" The three-eyed Magus made a sound of contempt.
"We always look at their actions, and not their heart!" the old Magus said a proverb.
"Even if it's a show, it also shows his willingness to enter a white Magus' faction! That's a lot better than those unrepentant dark Magi!"
"In that case, do you mean…?"
Three-Eyes bowed slightly.
"Tell the Potioneering team that we have found them someone with potential…"
...
Naturally, Leylin would not know of such events. However, he more or less grasped the general situation.
With the strength of the Four Seasons Garden, it was very likely that all of his experiments from a young age until now would be displayed in front of a table that would be vetting him!
Furthermore, they would most likely infer that he had killed Bosain for the inheritance and was now on the run.
However, he was not worried at all.
The great Magus Serholm had utterly destroyed the Dylan Gardens. Since the dead party could not verify anything, they would at most reckon that he had obtained some subclass Magus information, and could have only advanced to an official Magus with some luck, so his future progress would be extremely limited.
Moreover, he was now an official Magus. Other guilds would definitely have official Magi who advanced under similar circumstances, and if they were to try to get to the truth, they would not be able to gain the trust of these Magi who had advanced in special scenarios. At the very end, they were still forces of the light Magi, so no matter how they thought inwardly, they had to show a good reputation on the outside.
As long as Leylin was able to hide the meditation technique of the great Magus Serholm and the A.I. Chip's purification of bloodlines, he was not afraid of letting them find out about other things.
Just as he expected, the moment he reached the reception area, he could see that Wade, who he had previously met, was already there waiting for him.
"Nice to meet you, Magus Leylin!" Wade smiled as he bowed towards Leylin.
"Congratulations on passing the test. From here on, you are a member of the Four Seasons Garden!" Wade gave a passionate smile.
"I am also honoured to enter such a great organisation as the Four Seasons Garden!"
Leylin had a look of excitement on his face.
"There are still a few contracts and procedures we need to go through regarding your entry. Please follow me!"
Wade walked in front and led the way, bring Leylin out of Nightless City.
Seeing the look of doubt on Leylin's face, Wade explained, "Even though Four Seasons Garden has a few laboratories and a reception area in Zone 5, our headquarters is in the outskirts of Nightless City."
"I see!" Leylin nodded, following Wade to a region near the gates to the city.
In front of Leylin was a large square, and in the middle, there were several wooden crosses, to which creatures of all shapes and sizes were tied.
"This is one of the Four Seasons Garden's contacts, from which you can choose a specialized mount!"
Wade pointed at a giant magical creature that had just landed from the air.
"Although you can rent them, I suggest that you buy one for your personal use as transportation!"
Wade walked to a small wooden hut beside the plaza and greeted the person inside through the window.
"Madre, give me two Dragon Crown Nighthawks, as I wish to go to the headquarters!"
"I got it, I got it. You told me already!" The man behind the window impatiently answered, and tossed out two green metal sheets.
-x-X-x-
"Let's go!" Wade called towards the distracted Leylin.
"What, do you like these guys?"
Wade pointed at a creature in front of Leylin that looked like an elephant, but had a layer of white feathers on its body that appealed to Leylin.
"I'm very interested in these kinds of strange creatures!"
Leylin gave a slight smile while he made a decision. He would come here often and look around, and if he was lucky enough, there might even be a few creatures with ancient bloodlines!
"Come on!"
Wade brought Leylin to where two gigantic Dragon Crown Nighthawks were.
These huge birds that resembled eagles had steely black feathers covering their bodies and their necks were dyed red. On their head, there was a beautiful protruding bone in the shape of a crown.
Wade unlocked the bronze collar on the Dragon Crown Nighthawks' necks and tossed one of the green metal sheets Leylin.
"This is the key to controlling them. Come, let us leave!"
Leylin climbed on one of the Nighthawks' backs in curiosity. On its back was the leather saddle of a mount. It seemed to be manufactured for the comfort of the riders.
Leylin sat on the saddle and willed a trace of his spiritual force to enter the green metal sheet.
The moment his spiritual energy touched the metal sheet, Leylin could feel his mind instantly connecting with the Nighthawk.
The Nighthawk's mind was very simple, and it was only able to receive commands such as fly, drop, increase speed, turn, and so on. Its intelligence was similar to that of a child of around seven or eight years of age.
[Dragon Crown Nighthawk. Strength: 5.2, Agility: 7.6, Vitality: 4.9, Special abilities: None.]
The stats given by the A.I. Chip were simple. From the looks of it, this type of Dragon Crown Nighthawk was only suitable as a means of transportation.
"Let's go!"
The large Nighthawk spread its wings, and in doing so, swept up a dust tornado.
Following two cries of the Nighthawks, Leylin and Wade made themselves comfortable on their backs as they flew into the sky.
*Whoosh*
The strong air pressure made Leylin feel as if he were in the middle of a hurricane.
"Hehe! Leylin, how does it feel?"
Wade, who was on the Nighthawk beside Leylin, spoke up.
Leylin's eyes closed in a contented manner as he enjoyed the scenery zooming past him on both sides, as well as the blue sky and white clouds that seemed to be in close proximity.
For official Magi, whose bodies were much more resilient than the regular human beings, this sort of pressure was akin to a slight breeze.
"It's not bad!"
"Haha… Back then, I had regretted that I had not memorised a flying type spell. However, ever since I got my precious, I did not have those thoughts anymore. Perhaps one day, you can have a look at it! I swear that you will be enchanted by it…"
Leylin chatted with Wade along the way as he observed the flying path of the Dragon Crown Nighthawk.
Ever since he had left the Nightless City, the Dragon Crown Nighthawk had been flying eastward.
With the passing of time, the air in the atmosphere turned chillier.
Finally, a snow covered mountain range appeared in front of Leylin. The Dragon Crown Nighthawk let out an excited growl, and began to soar upwards.
On a patch of ground covered with white snow, the Dragon Crown Nighthawks that carried Wade and Leylin landed.
"Welcome to the Four Seasons Garden's headquarters!"
Wade led Leylin into a tall passageway.
Two acolytes that seemed to have been waiting for them began to receive the Dragon Crown Nighthawk, and brought them to their stables, before beginning to scrub and feed them.
The passageway was extremely winding, and the walls were covered with pure white snow. On the inside, however, a warm wind was circulating.
From the various forks on the passageway, Leylin could see several Magi with acolytes walking past them. They carried notebooks and seemed to be in a hurry.
After half an hour and several checkpoints, they finally reached their destination.
"We're here, this is my mentor's room, Lord Reynold's office!"
Wade pushed open a big black metal door while explaining to Leylin.
It was extremely spacious behind the door, and there were many green vines creeping in the surroundings.
The ancient tree vines were twisted and intertwined, taking the shape of the table and chairs. Also, where some knots were, several beautiful white flowers were blooming, emitting a sweet fragrance.
Behind the desk made of black vines, an old, white-haired Magus wearing gilded spectacles smiled at Leylin.
"Welcome!"
"An honour to meet you, my Lord!" The energy waves radiating off the old man's body completed surpassed that of a Rank 1 Magus. Leylin had only come across this sort of undulation from the chairman and a couple of other Magi at the bloodbath in the Abyssal Bone Forest Academy.
It was obvious that this old man was at least a rank 2 Magus.
"Don't hold back. The Four Seasons Garden was created by the great Potions Master, Amesandenisa, for the sake of exchanging research and potion formulas. Our objective is to create equality and freedom!"
The white-haired man laughed with a kind demeanor.
"Being able to enter the Four Seasons Garden is an honour, my lord!"
Leylin bowed once more.
"Now then, are you prepared to sign the contract?" Reynold asked.
"I hope you don't mind, but could I see the contents of the contract?" Leylin asked.
"Right! Don't mind me, I've already gotten so old that I have forgotten these things…" The old man chuckled and pointed at a piece of parchment on the table.
Leylin picked it up and looked through the conditions.
Just as he had expected, the specifications were quite lax.
It was stated that Leylin had to swear not to harm the Four Season Garden's interests and that he had to complete a specific number of missions per year. In exchange, the Four Seasons Garden would provide him with information and resources. In all other areas, the conditions were lax and did not restrain him in any way. There wasn't even any mention of what would happen to Magi who left the organisation.
"It is just as Crew mentioned. Due to some history, the Four Seasons Garden's pact is quite loose!"
Of course, Leylin was aware that this was just for him to gain access to some of the Four Season Garden's resources. He was unable to gain further access to the more important items.
That was only possible from the start if the contract was much more strict, to the point that he had to leave a part of his spirit here.
However, Leylin wanted to enter a large organisation by taking on the role of a guest professor or special guest. It was for his convenience to obtain high-grade information and resources in the future. He had planned to travel across the world in the future and search for various Magi remnants and did not want to just be tied down in one place.
Leylin took extra care to examine the margins of the parchment paper, which was extremely clean, with no additional conditions or runes inscribed onto them.
Some ancient characters were extremely difficult to notice and even similar to runes. Leylin had heard that many magicians loved to use such devious traps in order to trick others.
Although the Four Seasons Garden might not stoop down to such a level, Leylin still felt that he had to be more careful for his own sake.
"A.I. Chip! Scan! Check if there are any pitfalls or unknown constraints in the contract!"
Leylin commanded silently.
[Mission establishing, beginning detailed scan!] The A.I. Chip's voice intoned.
Currently, after several upgrades, the A.I. Chip was still able to hide all traces of its existence before a rank 2 Magus.
[Beep! Scan complete! No strange or concealed restraints on the contract!] The A.I. Chip's voice intoned.
"These conditions are very good, I have no reasons to refuse them!"
The A.I. Chip's indication could only be heard by Leylin. From Wade's point of view, Leylin had only given it a cursory glance, before readily agreeing.
"Very well!" Reynold chanted an incantation.
*Buzz buzz!*
There was an undulation in the air, and immediately, a mysterious eye appeared in mid-air.
This eye was completely black, save for the scarlet light within the pupil.
"Trial's Eye!" Leylin said inwardly.
This eye was extremely similar to the clone he had summoned, but it was at least ten times bigger than what he had seen before!
It was obvious that when summoned by a rank 2 Magus, the Trial's Eye's might would be multiplied.
If it was said that the Trial's Eye that Leylin had summoned when he was an acolyte had less than a billionth of the strength of its true body, this vertical eye that Reynold had summoned would most likely have the strength of a millionth of the Trial's Eye's real body.
The Trial's Eye floated in mid-air quietly, and Leylin seemed to even see a trace of intelligence within its pupils.
"This is different from a phantom that has no consciousness when summoned by an acolyte. The might of the Trial's Eye, when summoned by an official Magus, is even stronger. Moreover, it is intelligent and can think on its own, so it is able to judge the contract fairly between both parties!
Reynold explained to Leylin.
That was to say, if this Trial's Eye had appeared in the past, Leylin's past ploy in deceiving the vengeful spirit Roman with a word game would have been exposed, and he would have suffered the punishment of the Trial's Eye.
"I declare that the ceremony starts now!"
Reynold announced in a low voice, and the moment he spoke, the Trial's Eye trembled. Leylin could tell that the atmosphere in the air had changed and became denser.
"Witnessed by the mighty and impartial Trial's Eye! Leylin, do you agree to sign this agreement?" Reynold asked, his voice clear and powerful in the ancient Byron language.
"I agree!" Leylin answered his speech also in the ancient Byron language.
The moment the words left his mouth, he could feel his spirit tremble, seeming to repeat the words that he had just said.
The phantom of the Trial's Eye shook, seeming to be the witness to this contract.
"So then, I, Reynold, hereby declare the contract as established!" Reynold called out.
*Boom!*
The contract on the parchment paper in Reynold's hands suddenly combusted, turning into ashes as they entered the phantom.
*Xiu Xiu!*
The Trial's Eye exploded and turned into two black rays, entering Leylin and Reynold's bodies at a speed that the naked eye could not follow.
"Congratulations. From today onwards, you are now an extrinsic Magus! Not only can you obtain a portion of precious resources every month, you are also allowed access to most of our labs and the library!"
Reynold said to Leylin.
-x-X-x-
"Good, now let's speak about your allocations…"
Reynold told Leylin.
"According to Wade, you have an amazing talent and ability in Potioneering. We cannot allow such a talent to be neglected. After some consideration, we are prepared to arrange you into the Potioneering team. Do you have any objections?"
"I couldn't wish for anything better!" Leylin smiled.
Since there were Potioneering teams, there should be other alchemy teams, battle teams and more. Leylin only wanted to enter the organisation to get a salary and gather some resources. He definitely would not be willing to endanger his life fighting battles for them.
As for being able to join the Potioneering team, the requirements should be related to Potioneering, which was something he specialised in.
It seemed that intentionally having exposed his innate skill and strength from before had helped him in his promotion.
"Alright! Wade, bring Leylin to the Decarte of the Potioneering team, and then come back. In regards to the Moonflower Flame incident, I think there are better ways to deal with it... "
"Yes, teacher!" Wade gave a bow, and took Leylin away with him.
"What do you think? My tutor is a good person, right?"
Wade asked Leylin with a sense of pride and boasting. Being in front of Leylin, who was now a fellow comrade, he was visibly much more relaxed.
"He is a wise and amiable senior!" This time, Leylin naturally would not sing a different tune.
"Ha ha... everyone says that. Come, let me bring you to the Potioneering team. Decarte, over there, is overly conservative, but he still attentively cultivates truly talented young magicians...."
Wade divulged a quite a bit of information without much thought.
At the end of the turn, a magician in black robes emerged.
This magician exuded a twisted and chilling murderous aura with faint howls from vengeful spirits, causing Leylin to feel sensitive.
The most eye-catching thing about this magician was his vertical third eye in the middle of his forehead.
The vertical eye was always open, and its pupil was pitch-black. It seemed to lack feeling or sensation, causing one to not help but shiver.
"Wade, this new Magus doesn't seem to be very polite..."
The three-eyed Magus said coldly. An icy spiritual force immediately pounced onto Leylin.
"Hmmm?!"
Leylin was caught by surprise, and immediately gathered his spiritual force to defend.
*Pop!* Fine bubbles of air in the atmosphere began to pop.
The moment their spiritual forces met, Leylin could feel that his opponent's spiritual force contained a strong aura of fresh blood. This kind of odor was so dense that Leylin nearly suffocated as he could not dispel it.
And besides, his opponent's level of elemental essence conversion far surpassed that of semi-converted elemental Magi. Leylin's spiritual force collapsed under his opponent's attack.
As if a sledgehammer had smashed into Leylin's chest, he stumbled two steps back, and his face turned white.
The three-eyed magician looked bewilderedly at Leylin, "Your spiritual force is not bad, but it's a pity that it was still insufficient…"
Subsequently, he did not take another look at Leylin, and proceeded past them.
It seemed that the Magus was trying to show off and demonstrate his prowess.
"Are you okay?" Wade looked a little worried for Leylin.
"No problem, my spiritual force is just a little shaken up. A few days of rest is all I need to get better!" Leylin looked in the direction of three-eyed Magus as he left, "Who is he?"
"He is Lord Caesar, a Magus personally nurtured by the Four Seasons Garden, and with valiant fighting strength. He is in charge of the hunting team, and is the role as our deputy commander!"
Wade looked at Leylin with a bitter smile on his lips.
"Lord Caesar believes that foreign magicians will only damage the Four Seasons Garden's unity, and believes that recruiting new magicians should be banned…"
As if afraid that Leylin would worry, he added on, "Of course, my teacher, Lord Reynold, does not agree with his point of view. Furthermore, my teacher was one of the pioneers of this organisation. At the present, the Four Seasons Garden's higher authorities are still in favour of recruiting new magicians…"
"Head of the hunting team..."
Leylin glared in the direction of Lord Caesar, and a ray of light flashed from his eyes.
"A.I. Chip, estimate the opponent's strength!"
[Based on the spiritual force emitted by the opponent, target's strength estimated: Rank 1 Magus with peak strength, elemental essence conversion above 80%...]
"With this kind of strength, it bears a resemblance to the elder from the Lilytell Family. By the looks of it, if I was paired to battle against him, I'd have little chance of winning…"
Tons of complicated ideas were swirling around in Leylin's mind.
"Okay, let me bring you to the Potioneering team…"
Wade quickly changed the topic, and Leylin followed behind Wade without comment.
Along the way, Wade tried his best to speak about other topics, hoping Leylin would forget about the unhappiness from earlier on. Even though they both knew it was impossible, Leylin still acted as if he was listening attentively.
"After becoming a part of our team, you can live here permanently in a house for free. However, life here is very monotonous; we just conduct experiments after experiments. Hence, many magicians like to own housing in the Nightless City, so that they can have a vacation over there from time to time…"
Wade responsibly told Leylin what to expect. After crossing several forks in the road, they came to a stone bridge that spanned mid-air across an overhanging cliff, which led to a botanic garden.
The floor here was made of metal, and the surroundings were a tidy and clean shade of white, causing the misconception of returning to his laboratory from his past life.
On both sides of the road, there was also transparent glass.
Behind the glass were petri dishes, in which various sorts of exotic plants had been planted.
Walking Earth Grass, Giant Food Flowers, Face Vines… With just a casual sweep of his eyes, Leylin found countless precious plants. Some were even important ingredients for cultivating spiritual force, but of course, they were only effective for acolytes.
Any newly recruited rank 1 Magus would be astonished at all these things, but Leylin had seen the great Magus Serholm's Dylan Gardens that he had personally cultivated, and all these plants were nothing compared to what he had seen before.
However, a shocked expression still flashed across his face.
"We've arrived. This is the Potioneering headquarters!"
Wade brought Leylin through the garden, and arrived in front of two huge stone statues that resembled monsters.
"Password!" The statue started to speak.
"Tell Decarte that I've brought someone here for him! And also, don't make jokes to amuse yourself! If it happens again, I'll tell the teachers to change all guarding systems in this facility! You should know that I have that power!"
Wade bellowed at the statue.
As if he knew that Wade wasn't joking, the enormous stone statue monster chuckled before getting out of the way.
"These two statues seem to have been manufactured defectively. The creator mistakenly stuffed a couple of mischievous spirits into the statues. Just ignore them!"
Wade brought Leylin through, then told Leylin.
"Mischievous spirits?" Leylin stared blankly, while immediately recalling a written account from an illustrated handbook.
"Those that resemble goblins, and tease people for their own pleasure... Those spirits? This is really… it deserves our sympathy!"
"To be honest, I also have some sympathy for myself!"
While Leylin was speaking, a tunnel behind the stone statue was opened, revealing what seemed like a structure of a ginormous auditorium.
There was a huge gold chandelier suspended from the ceiling of the auditorium. There were plenty of giant candles on it, illuminating the auditorium.
In the auditorium, there were numerous unusually long white birch tables with all sorts of delicacies spread on top. There were only a few magicians, and they were sitting far away from each other. Only a few of them who seemed to have a better relationship huddled together to chat.
The voice from earlier on belonged to a middle-aged magician on the platform.
"Here, let me introduce to you, this is Lord Decarte, the head of the Potioneering team. He is a Magus at the peak of Rank 1, and on the verge of breaking through to Rank 2!"
Wade smiled as he saluted Decarte, then said to Leylin.
"Lord Decarte!"
Leylin quickly bowed.
"Hehe, I know you! I've seen the clip of you brewing the medicine; your technique was really admirable! From now on, we'll be colleagues! Everyone, please give a toast to our newest comrade!"
Decarte snapped his fingers, and two cups filled with mead flew in front of him and Leylin.
"Cheers!" All of the magicians present raised their cups.
"Thanks!" Leylin took the cup. The mead's alcohol content was not high, and it tasted like sweet liquor. Its taste was pleasant.
"Well, since I've sent Leylin here, I will be taking my leave!"
Wade drank his wine in one shot, "My dear teacher is still waiting!"
"Since you still have something to attend to, I shall not delay you any further. Leylin, come! Sit here!"
While Decarte was speaking, the acolytes beside him immediately arranged a new long table. Countless kinds of delicacies and fruits were continuously brought to the table, quickly piling up onto the table.
Leylin slightly bowed and arrived at his own seat.
Only at this time did he have the chance to size up Decarte, the formidable Potioneering team leader.
Decarte wore white robes, onto which green plant designs had been embroidered.
His face's shape was common, and on his forehead was a dark green headband, making him look extremely indolent.
Around Leylin, there were also a couple of servants, who were dressed glamorously. From the aura they gave off, they were level 3 acolytes from noble families.
He took a look around. Solely in this auditorium, there were at least thirty official Magi, and countless acolytes.
This was only a Potioneering team. In terms of overall strength, it had already surpassed the Abyssal Bone Forest Academy.
The banquet carried on for about an hour and a half. After the majority of the magicians had finished eating, the acolytes brought beverages of different colours. The atmosphere in the auditorium slowly cozied up, resembling the tea parties Leylin had attended in his past life.
"Alright. This meal and welcoming ceremony are over. Let us discuss the allocation of work now…"
Decarte spoke on the platform, his voice resonating to the ears of every magician present.
Upon hearing this, the magicians put down their cups.
"Elmo! How's the progress of the Giant Dragon Strength Potion?"
A voluptuous female magician stood up, "I am about 70% done with deducing the formula, and am currently stuck at some crucial points. I am applying for the third centrifuge and supplies from the fifth garden…"
"Good. After the banquet ends, submit an application form!" Decarte nodded in agreement.
-x-X-x-
"How about you, Martin? How is the brewing of the monthly 300 doses of Frost Potions?"
Martin was a short old man, and when his name was called, he seemed uneasy as he stood up.
"Si… Sir, you know it. I am having a shortage of manpower… Also, recently, the apparatuses have…"
"I don't care what your reasons are, Martin. Isn't this the third time already?" Decarte's face darkened.
"Please… Please forgive me, Sir!" Martin's face reddened.
"It's timely that you're lacking in manpower. Leylin will first be assigned to your team, and I will provide you with another 3 synthesizing machines. If you are still unable to complete your task by next month, your allowance for this year will be greatly reduced!"
"Yes, Sir!" Martin could not help but to wipe the sweat off of his face.
Leylin, who heard his name being called, got up.
Next, Decarte called on several other magicians, inquired about their progress, and made the necessary arrangements.
After the banquet, Leylin took the initiative to slow his footsteps and walk alongside Martin.
"Having you come to my team… I'm sorry…" Martin apologised.
"It's not a problem!"
In any team, all newbies had to suffer at the beginning, and Leylin was well aware of this fact.
"Alright, let's move on. I'll bring you to the lab and your room. There's also some stuff that you'll need to know."
Even though Martin looked quite inept, he was enthusiastically guiding Leylin through the registration processes.
"Take it. They're the keys to your room, as well as your identity token!"
The old geezer Martin brought Leylin to a house that was constructed of black stones. Also, he handed over an old bronze key and an identity token to Leylin.
The ancient key was modelled in an old fashioned way.There were even some characters inscribed on it.
As for the identity token, it was made of a translucent metal, with Leylin's name and other information carved onto it.
"Just with this token, you are able to go to the organisation's resource point and obtain a portion of precious ingredients, as well as some advanced information."
Martin explained to Leylin with patience.
"This token is extremely important, and if you lose, it there will be quite a hassle. You must definitely protect it well…"
Seeing that Leylin nodded his head to express his understanding, Martin brought Leylin to view the experiment labs and rooms.
"The experiment lab is a common shared area, and its number is dkh-328! The apparatus in it is rather decent, and enough for an official Magus. Furthermore, if you have any other special requests, you can apply for it through the organisation. As long as you have enough contribution points, the organisation will do their best to fulfill your requests...."
Leylin had heard Martin mention contribution points before. They were a method that the Four Seasons Garden used to gauge the merits of individual Magi. After finishing the appointed amount of work required, an official Magus could obtain contribution points.
These points could not only raise the status of the team but could also be used to exchange for essential resources and knowledge.
From what Leylin could tell, this was a form of currency in the Four Seasons Garden.
"Speaking of contribution points, since you have only just entered, I'm sure you don't have enough. How about it? Do you want to accept one or two acolytes? These kinds of assignments give the most contribution points."
Martin suggested helpfully.
"Actually, I don't have any plans on teaching anyone anytime soon!"
Leylin smiled and refused Martin's request.
"However, how does the academy function to protect a member's family?"
Leylin briefly stated the issue of him offending the Lilytell Family to Martin.
Under the insurance of safety and personal benefits, Leylin would not mind leaving a lifeline for the previous Leylin's Farlier family
After all, he was still the eldest son and heir to this family in name.
Also, if the opportunity presented itself, Leylin wished to make up for the fact that he had borrowed the body of this family's child.
"Oh, don't worry about it!"
Martin listened to what he said and shook his head.
"Our Four Seasons Garden is a lot more powerful than the Abyssal Bone Forest Academy. As long as we get in contact with them, the Farlier family in the Chernobyl Islands will definitely be taken good care of! Furthermore, based on the contract that you've signed with us, before it's certain that you're dead, the Lilytell family will definitely not be able to hurt your family of regular humans."
"There's such a rule?"
Leylin was a little curious. No matter that world he was in, it was acknowledged that harming one's family was a very good way causing one to seek revenge, much less in the Magus world, where the regard of law was lacking.
"Is this… the fear of revenge?" Leylin guessed.
"Exactly. You're fast!"
Martin looked pleased with Leylin. "An official Magus that has nothing to tie him down is the scariest. Especially the fact that the Lilytell Family's members are not all magicians. There are definitely acolytes and normal human beings amongst them…"
Leylin understood that this was a mutual fear of each other.
Before his death was confirmed, as long as the Lilytell Family dared to strike at the Farlier Family, it would definitely incur the wrath and revenge of Leylin.
Also, with the strength of an official Magus, slaughtering those humans and acolytes would be as easy as eating rice and drinking water.
Even if the Lilytell Family was rather established, they would definitely not be able to handle such a loss.
Hence, the Farlier Family would completely be safe.
"What's more, you've joined us!" Martin's expression was one of pride, and perhaps conceit.
"The Four Seasons Garden's might is not something that the likes of the Abyssal Bone Forest Academy can even begin to compare to. After hearing that you joined our side, they might have even thought of withdrawing their order for your capture!"
"I don't really care about that!"
Leylin thought about Bosain, who he had killed. This acolyte of nobility seemed to be the sole grandson of the elder of the Lilytell Family.
In addition, they had also dispatched a rank 1 Magus to kill him, who had ended up dying by Leylin's hand.
This enmity could not be so easily resolved.
"I've heard that the competition to be the next head of the Lilytell Family has reached the most crucial point. That elder is also known for being headstrong, and will not tolerate my existence. Otherwise, his image and reputation will be ruined…"
On the contrary, as Leylin thought of this, a look of anticipation appeared in his eyes.
Right now his strength was rapidly increasing. Moreover, once he underwent his second transition of his bloodline, his strength would definitely be boosted by a significant amount. At that time, it would not be a matter of whether the enemy would let Leylin leave, but whether Leylin would let them go.
...
Four months later.
Leylin wore a loose white robe, with patterns of green plants embroidered on the sleeves and collar.
This was the uniform that official Magi in the Four Seasons Garden wore.
He was presently passing through the side roads in the mountain of the Four Seasons Garden's headquarters.
After walking through a tunnel full of little plant people, he arrived at an ancient square.
The square seemed to be constructed in the heart of the mountain and was very large. The ceiling was made of solid rock, and an innumerable amount of everlasting light spells had been added to the wall, brightening up the entire room.
This was the place in the Four Seasons Garden where he could exchange contribution points for resources.
Here, whether it was an acolyte or Magus, one could use contribution points and gain the materials and information that they wanted.
In addition, as an official Magi, Leylin was able to gain his monthly allocation for finishing his monthly tasks.
Many magicians who wished to join the Four Seasons Garden were attracted by this temptation, which was second only to having a large backer supporting them.
Leylin specifically walked towards to counter that handled the redemption of contribution points for official Magi.
The staff member in here was actually an official Magus as well. This official Magus was a female, with ocean blue hair that softly rested on her shoulders. On the sides of her lips, there were traces of gills.
"Hello, may I ask what you require?" The female Magus asked using the common language of the south coast, her voice extremely gentle and pleasing to the ears.
"This feeling…" Leylin was instead alarmed, "It's extremely similar to the time when I was brewing the Azure Potion, where the voices of mermaids singing were heard…"
"It seems that this woman has a trace of the mermaids' bloodline…"
Leylin's expression on the surface was indifferent, as he looked at the woman and handed over his token. "I am here to retrieve some ingredients; is there a catalogue for them?"
"This is the catalogue of the items that you are currently able to exchange for!" The female Magus swept her eyes over Leylin's token and seemed surprised as she looked at Leylin. After that, she pretended that it was not a big deal, and handed over a catalogue to him.
Leylin looked at the list of items on the catalogue in detail.
This list was extremely long. Not only were there many resources that were precious even in the Nightless City, there were also many pieces high-grade information, and the latest results of experiments.
Furthermore, Leylin even saw some spiritual force potions that were meant for an official Magus' consumption. However, the contribution points required were so high that Leylin could only long for them.
"Sky Flower Welk Fruit, Dwarf Frost Runes, Elemental Crystals!"
Leylin's fingers stopped when they traced the words of 'elemental crystals' on the catalogue. His previous backlash from consuming them had now disappeared, so he could once again obtain more crystallised Darkness energy particles to raise his elemental essence conversion.
Leylin fervently looked through the entry of the elemental crystals, and finally, at the end of the list of the names of energy particles, he found the name that he was searching for.
"Crystallised Darkness energy particles: able to effectively raise the elemental essence conversion of a Magus. Also has major residual effects. Use at your own risk! Available: 5850g. 1g = 1 contribution point. Limit: Regular team members can only buy a maximum of 50g per month!"
"This price?"
Leylin frowned.
Based on this method of calculation, he could purchase 50g of elemental crystals at the most, which would deplete his contribution points by about half.
He had used up 300 grams of crystals, which raised his elemental essence conversion to 35%. With another 50g, at the very most, he would be able to raise it to 40%, which just wouldn't be enough!
-x-X-x-
"Why is the price of these crystals so expensive?"
Leylin could not help but blurt out, "Also, there's a limit to the quantity that I can purchase?"
From the looks of it, with such a method for calculating the price, elemental crystals were one of the most expensive items in the catalogue. Their prices were only second to that of a spiritual force potion.
Leylin had stayed in the Four Seasons Garden for four months and had been allocated 10 contribution points per month. This meant that even if Leylin stayed idle, he would be able to get ten contribution points per month from the Four Seasons Garden. Furthermore, he had joined Martin's squad, and every time he completed a mission, he would receive a fixed amount of contribution points.
However, even after adding all of these up, it was actually still not enough to buy many items.
"Although the backlash of the elemental crystals is great, it is undeniable that it can boost the strength of a Magus. Naturally, it is an item that is highly sought after."
The female Magus seemed to have heard these questions countless of times, so she did not hesitate with her reply.
"Give me 50 grams of elemental crystals, and on top of that, add these two pieces of high-grade information!"
Leylin paused and thought, before pointing to the catalogue and saying to the female Magus.
He knew that he had made a mistake; the Four Seasons Garden's monthly allocation of resources could not be stacked up, but was instead fixed for every month.
That was to say, Leylin could obtain up to 50 grams of elemental crystals per month, but he was not able to wait and receive several months' worth of allocations at the same time.
Moreover, even if he knew beforehand that the monthly allocations could not be accumulated, he, who had just joined, did not have that many contribution points allocated to him in the first place.
"A total of 80 contribution points!"
The female Magus took Leylin's badge and waved it above a black machine. Bright red lights flashed.
Following that, she then retrieved the items that Leylin had requested from behind the counter.
"Thank you!"
Leylin stuff the items in his robes and left the plaza with a heavy heart.
"Leylin! Leylin!"
A short magus, with a height of merely one meter and a skull like a gnome, hurriedly ran to Leylin.
"You're just in time. Follow me, Martin was just looking for you!"
From what Leylin knew about this short Magus, he had also been temporarily assigned to Martin's group. The two of them had accomplished a significant amount of missions together and had a decent relationship with each other.
"Is anything wrong?"
Leylin was a little curious.
As the leader, Martin would usually lead and plan the task. In other areas, however, Martin had little presence.
"It seems like this is related to this month's task!" Leylin said. The short Magus revealed a delightful smile.
"Ever since Leylin joined Team 3, our rate of success has been steadily increasing, allowing Martin to gain favour with Lord Decarte! In addition, since our group has been performing exceedingly well, Decarte has started assigning us other more challenging tasks with higher quality rewards."
"This time, it probably has to do with this matter…..."
"Other tasks?" Leylin was a little curious.
Ever since he had joined Team 3 under Martin, the tasks that had been assigned to him had always been the brewing of frost potions and the like.
In this complicated and taxing task, the presence of the A.I. Chip had begun to show its advantages. Leylin's completion rate was exceptionally stunning.
Thus, although Leylin consciously hid some of his progress, deliberately committing mistakes, his contribution to the small team was remarkable, gaining him the respect of many of the members.
Leylin followed behind the short Magus, passing through a couple of long and narrow forks, and eventually arriving at Team 3's meeting point.
*Pong!* The iron door opened up at once.
"Leylin!"
Martin was slumped over at a long table and using a red pen to write, but after noticing Leylin, he briefly put his existing work on hold, his face revealing a pleasant smile.
To him, Leylin was basically his savior.
With Leylin's entry into the team, he had been able to complete his own task, assuredly securing his own resources this year, and also helping his team accomplish some marvelous tasks.
It was only now that he believed that Leylin was his lucky star.
There were other members of Team 3 in the spacious room. Upon seeing Leylin, their faces displayed amicable smiles.
"Great! Now that everyone is present, I shall talk about this month's task!"
Martin happily took out a scroll wrapped with a golden ribbon out from his robe, steadily opening it in front of Leylin and the others.
"Our task this month is to maintain a specific area within the secret plane. Reward: 50 contribution points each!"
*Clamour*
Even though they were aware that the task this time around would be very good, the Magi situated below were in chaos.
"It's actually to enter the secret plane! This is really…" The short Magus had a very excited look on his face.
At the corner, Leylin revealed his surprise too. "Such a huge reward, and also, a secret plane?"
A secret plane was a domain that ancient Magi had constructed in order to house resources or conduct experiments. It was isolated by spells, and by the looks of it, the Four Seasons Garden possessed such a place as well.
"I almost forgot, Leylin, you have just joined not long ago, and probably are still unaware of the secret plane!"
Martin closed and rebound the scroll, smiling as he walked towards Leylin.
"Leylin, from what you know, what is the one thing that a Magus values the most?"
"Talent and resources!" Leylin answered without hesitation. This was the common consensus from all Magi in the south coast.
"Not bad. A Magus's aptitude is set from birth, and is impossible to change, and the only way to make up for it thereafter is in the resources aspect!"
"With sufficient resources, even a Magus with an average aptitude can possibly reach the footsteps of a gifted Magus… …"
Martin showed a face of awe.
"Thus, once ancient Magi advanced, they would search for an area that had a high concentration of elemental energy particles, and construct a secret plane to nurture and grow resources… For this reason, it is the root of many ancient Magi remnants that you see now!"
"As for the current generation of Magi, they are far from the overpowering might of ancient Magi, who could cast isolation spells on their own, and set up spells that could stretch and compress space… some needed resources like space rocks for the construction, which cannot be found by the current age Magi!"
"Thus, at the current south coast, the inner circles of magisteriums have joined forces to open up and cultivate a part of a secret plane as a mainstream activity…"
"Perhaps, there are a few lucky ones. Those who are so lucky that they can cause jealousy, obtaining ancient remnants and inheritances and controlling a secret plane. That is really a story of instant success…"
Martin's face was tinged with envy.
Of course, Leylin knew what a secret plane represented, as the knowledge that he had previously gathered at the Dylan Gardens had been deeply etched into his memory.
Simply owning a part of a secret plane would mean the provision of limitless resources!
For a Magi who especially required resources, this was an irresistible offer.
However, the capability of a Magus was limited, and one unable to build a new secret plane on his or her own. Only when working together could Magi build a secret plane.
Leylin had predicted the existence of similar places in the Abyssal Bone Forest Academy, but because his level had been lower back then, and he had advanced into a Magus after leaving the Academy, he was unable to prove this point.
"Leylin, you have only been here for a few months, and yet, you are entering into the secret plane. The upper management seem to have a lot of confidence in you, huh!"
Martin patted Leylin on his back in a friendly manner.
"Not at all! Not at all!" Leylin gave a modest expression, appearing rather shy.
"Ha Ha… ...Let's go!"
Martin laughed and took the lead, and Leylin himself followed closely behind him.
The entrance to the Four Seasons Garden's secret plane was near the headquarters so that it would be easy to deploy forces to guard the entrance.
Leylin and the rest followed behind Martin, and after following five to six roads, they reached the entrance to the secret plane.
On the way there, Leylin used the A.I. Chip, and felt the five or six energy waves scanning over his group.
Furthermore, the Magi guiding the entrance were of semi-converted elemental strength and beyond.
These types of stringent and vigilant checks caught Leylin by surprise.
Standing in front of them, the stern looking Magi examined the scroll that Martin was holding once more. After which, Martin turned back and shouted to Leylin and the rest, "Get ready, the entrance is about to open!"
The entrance to the secret plane was a door made out of a big slab of stone, and the borders of the big door were embossed with differing intricate designs.
On a platform beside the entrance, there was a Magus sitting cross-legged, whose countenance was concealed. Extremely mysterious and strong energy waves radiated from his body.
"This is the guardian of the academy! Hurry up and greet him!" Martin led the group of magicians and bowed first.
"This is… At least a rank 2 Magus' energy waves. It seems like the importance of this secret plane has far surpassed my guesses!" Leylin's eyes flashed as he bowed like the others.
"Since the inspection is now over, let us enter!"
The guardian waved his arm and chanted an incantation.
*Weng Weng!* The stone door moved, and a white light radiated from behind the door, giving off a feeling of energy waves emanating from the void.
Having had previous experience in exploring secret planes, Leylin was familiar with the undulations that indicated the opening of the plane.
At the same time, a bright light was produced from the scroll in Martin's hands, and enveloped the entire group.
When the white lights met and fused, it produced a blinding glare.
As the glare eventually vanished, Martin, as well as the other magicians, were revealed to have disappeared.
"Ugh!"
Leylin rubbed his eyes, which were stinging in pain. "This is really uncomfortable!"
He found himself standing on top of another platform, on which many acolytes were walking around.
Unlike the previous scenery, the surroundings were a sea of green.
The sky was a pure blue, and the surrounding air was extremely fresh.
"Are we within the secret plane? It seems quite large!"
Leylin stroked his chin. "A.I. Chip, analyse the surroundings!"
[Beep! Scanning in process! Compared to the air in the outer world, the density of energy particles within the secret plane is higher by 34.7%!]
The A.I. Chip displayed a chart in front of Leylin, quickly giving him the data that he required.
-x-X-x-
"This is shocking, isn't it?"
Martin joyfully said as he walked closer. "This is the Four Seasons Garden's four seasons secret plane, which has an overall land area of more than one hundred thousand mu, and is abundant with various types of resources… …"
"One hundred thousand mu?" Leylin was extremely surprised; this was the land area of a couple countries from before he was reincarnated added up together.
"Yeah, there are not only valuable objects and magical living creatures, but normal humans are in here too…"
Martin pointed towards the distance at what looked like an area of small towns and villages. "We employ normal humans to help us with farming and even working at some plantations for the Magi. This proves that being well organised, well planned with training, and more highly invested human resources, we can produce even more resources…"
"The entire Four Season's secret plane is the foundation of our Four Season's Garden, and is an unending stream of treasure!"
"Building the secret plane, cultivating resources, and harvesting; these are the main resources used to furnish the white Magi's power!" An intoxicating look flashed through Martin's eyes.
"These one hundred thousand mu of land have such a high energy concentration, and adding the special care and maintenance…" Leylin sighed, as he thought to himself in his heart.
Leylin also felt that the old him was always living in the shadows of the Magus world, whereas right now, he could finally see the differing ideologies of the dark Magi.
The light Magi cultivated the various plantations and animals within the secret plane, thus reaping great resources.
On the other hand, the dark Magi seemed to prefer using violence to obtain these resources.
"Leylin, do you know why the previous check that we went through was so stringent?"
Martin asked unexpectedly.
"Why? Could it be because of the fear of the dark Magi?" Leylin shared his speculations.
"Yes, it's those wretched beings!" Martin was fuming with rage when he spoke of the dark Magi.
"Those bloodthirsty dark Magi always seek to profit using other people's toils, and cannot be bothered to run their own secret plane. Instead, from time to time, they plot against our light Magi's secret plane.
The short magician who was at the side revealed the reason.
"Every year, there would be a successful occasion of dark Magi raiding our secret plane! Although they took only the presently available resources, and the secret plane was able to resume production, it was still a tremendous loss...
On the contrary, Leylin was surprisingly knowledgeable about the reasoning behind it.
Although the dark Magi grew up in a bloody and vicious environment, it was undeniable that having grown up in such conditions, these dark Magi were more powerful than the average light Magus.
In the eyes of the dark Magi, whose methods involved preying on the weak, the resources of the white Magi were a veritable gold mine.
Moreover, these kinds of smaller scale battles could even be used as a way for the dark Magi to train their forces.
If the white Magi had not been well organised and united, and the black Magi themselves also had flaws and trust issues, perhaps the balance of power of Magi in the entire south coast may have been altered.
"Alright, I will allocate the next task!"
Martin stood at the corner again and waited for all the Magi to make their way over, before giving his speech.
"Our task is to clean up an area in the north division, getting rid of the insect pests and diseases within. We also have to pay attention to the disease that is affecting the grassland in the east division. Black spots have appeared on the surface of Horse Milk Grass, and we need to use the First Jacklin Potion to take care of it."
"Fire Eyes and Hakob, go to the first east division! Oak and Leylin, you two go to the second east division."
Next, Martin started to announce people's duties.
"Let's go!" The midget Magus named Oak told Leylin.
After everyone's duties had been distributed, the Magi in the third team left the platform in groups of twos and threes.
"There is still a very large distance that we need to traverse to reach the north division, but we have already arranged for a mount, and will be able to reach our destination quickly… …"
It was obvious that Oak had been here a few times in the past. He brought Leylin to the edge of a building. Facing the window, he asked for 2 of the green metal plates.
"The controlling device for the Dragon Crown Nighthawks?"
By now, Leylin understood that the Four Seasons Garden totally controlled the secret plane.
With the two piercing cries of the Nighthawks, the two Dragon Crown Nighthawks flapped their wings and flew towards the east.
After flying for a distance, if one were to look at the riders from they had set off, one would only be able to see some tiny black specks.
The whistling of the wind continued to sound in Leylin's ears.
Leylin sat on the wide back of the Nighthawk, sweeping his eyes over the land under him.
In the secret plane, where the amount of energy particles was much denser, all types of vegetation grew very well.
For as far as the eye could see, there were lush green fields, within which there were several organised patches of blue flowers that gave off a sweet scent.
This was the Honey Milk Flower. Not only was it often used by acolytes as an ingredient used in Potioneering, the nectar within the flower was also a food that all beings in the Magus world enjoyed.
With the use of the A.I. Chip, Leylin could see that within the sea of blue, there were several people looking like ants as they worked diligently.
Beside the sea of flowers, there were several obviously man-made constructions, which seemed to have the sole purpose of watching over the flowers.
"Regular humans are in charge of plants that acolytes use as ingredients. As for ingredients that the official Magi usually use, which are more precious, they are more heavily defended, and are bred in special environments that simulate the environment of the outside world."
After flying for nearly half an hour, they descended into the outskirts of a small town.
"Greetings, my Lords!"
At this moment, a bunch of housewives and children came out from the town, and led by a town mayor and an acolyte, they respectfully greeted Leylin and Oak.
"We have definitely told you everything regarding the general events that have been taking place! This is my identity token! Bring me to the surveillance tower!"
Oak handed over a badge to the acolyte.
The acolyte seemed to be very old, and there were streaks of white hair behind his ears. He took the badge and traced over the surface of it with his thumb while chanting an incantation.
With the incantation, a layer of white light emerged from the badge and formed an image in midair. The screen listed Leylin's and Oak's profiles.
"Lord Leylin! Lord Oak! Please follow me!"
After seeing the image and information, this acolyte seemed to heave a sigh of relief, as he led Leylin and Oak to a tall stone tower within the small town.
"This is the organisation's surveillance tower. I have been taking on the role as a guard and have been maintaining the tower. Right now it is operating perfectly fine." The acolyte opened the doors of the surveillance tower as he made his report.
The surveillance tower was extremely simple, and the walls were the colour of ashen grey rocks.
The first floor made up the living quarters of the acolyte, and goods such as the stones and crystals used in the maintenance of the tower were haphazardly stocked on the second floor.
After going up the long flight of spiral steps, Leylin reached the highest floor of the surveillance tower.
Outside the door of the highest floor, there was actually a living magic creature. It was a painting of a lizard mounted on the wall. "Give me the password!"
"The great mother earth has bestowed upon us her powers!" The acolyte recited in a singsong voice.
"Password confirmed!" Following the reply of the lizard, the door opened with a creak.
"Even though he is only a level 3 acolyte, he's not bad!"
Leylin looked at the lizard within the painting that was still crawling and commented, before entering the room.
The room at the highest level was very small. There were windows installed on the four walls, and through them, one could observe the scenery surrounding the town.
"This is an apparatus that monitors the weather, and these spell formations complement the fine tuning of humidity and temperature. The controls are extremely simple, but since this is still your first time, Leylin, you can watch me first…"
Oak walked towards a black apparatus.
"Our initial purpose for coming here is to treat the disease that is affecting the Horse Milk Grass…"
Oak pressed on the apparatus, and immediately put on a red plastic mask on his face.
*Ka-Cha!* A depression appeared in the apparatus. It was the size of a thumb, which could fit a test-tube in.
"First Jacklin Potion!"
Oak placed several test tubes in the depression. Immediately, the green liquids water level slowly fell.
"Rain!" Oak spat out the word in the ancient Byron language. At the same time, water element particles were constantly converging in his palm.
The energy particles were magnified through the apparatus and were eventually expelled out of the tower.
"To have used the magic of magicians to replace science and create man-made rain, this is incredible!" An intoxicated expression appeared on Leylin's face as he thought.
Any and all paths of progression would eventually converge at the same final destination.
The magicians who harnessed the mysterious powers of magic in this world had nearly achieved the same feats attained in Leylin's previous world.
*Ka-Cha!*
Above the small town, patches of ominous clouds gathered and seemingly grew denser by the second.
*Pitter Patter!*
Droplets of green rain fell from the sky.
Dark clouds amassed, and the rain descended upon the grassy plains.
With the onset of rain, the black spots on the surface of the Horse Milk Grass became noticeably lighter. It seemed that with the treatment contained within the rainfall, the grass could have a complete recovery
"The management of the secret plane is also a skill! The method of creating rain is the simplest of all of the techniques that we use. We also need to be aware of the compatibility of the flora and the fauna. For instance, if Night Lotus Flowers and Midnight Bees are put together, not only can this raise the efficiency of the production of the Midnight Lotus Flowers, it can also increase the vitality of the Midnight Bees, and increase the chance of there being a Bee King. Furthermore, the honey made from the pollen of the Midnight Lotus Flower is also a cosmetic item highly sought after by female Magi."
Oak gave Leylin a brief introduction.
Leylin's experience in managing a secret plane was completely non-existent.
Hence, he attentively recorded Oak's words in his memory and asked questions from time to time in order to lessen his doubts
"However, it's a pity! If I am able to let the A.I. Chip manage the activities within the secret plane using science and technology, I am confident that I can increase the productivity of the secret plane by at least 20%!"
After understanding the general situation within the secret plane, Leylin felt that this was a pity.